I M P R O V E C H I L D H E A LT H T H R O U G H T H E P O W E R O F P E E R M O M S

Undernutrition is the single largest contributor to childhood illness and death. Poor nutrition early in life can permanently affect a childs ability to learn, grow, and provide for his or her family in the future.
THE PROBLEM:

The Care Group model is a peer-based health promotion program that works to improve health behaviors in low-resource communities. Care Groups mobilize mothers and local leaders to circulate essential practices for good hygiene, nutrition, and childcare, demonstrating that high-impact solutions to childhood malnutrition and illness can be simple, low-cost, and community-derived.
THE IDEA:

Food for the Hungrys Child Survival Program in Mozambique improves child nutrition and health through its use of the Care Group model. Each Care Group, made up of 10-15 volunteer women, meets on a biweekly basis with a paid health promoter for lessons covering health topics such as nutrition, water treatment, and sanitation. Each Care Group member then meets and shares information with her own cohort of 10-15 beneficiary mothers, relaying health information in a culturally sensitive way.
HIGH IMPACT OPPORTUNITY:

Over a five-year period, FHs Care Group program in Mozambique reduced under-five mortality by an estimated 30% and reduced child malnutrition by 38%. It was estimated that the project saved over 5,000 childrens lives. In addition, over 60% of the volunteer mothers reported being more respected by their husbands and community leaders.
RESULTS:

The estimated cost to serve one mother is approximately $3, and the estimated cost per childs life saved is in the range of $440-$660.
COST PER IMPACT:

TAKE ACTION: Donating to Care Group programs can strengthen womens community roles and save childrens lives. You can find links online to Food for the Hungry, Core Group, World Relief, and many other groups that are using the Care Group model. TIPS: For a quick reference guide in assessing whether or not programs incorporate the Care Group model, download the Care Group Minimum Criteria Reviewer Checklist.

For additional tips, information, and references, see our case study on care groups and our Global Childrens Health toolkit. For all of CHIPs profiles of high impact giving opportunities in 2013, see http://www.impact. upenn.edu/about/year-end-giving.